Book Reports (127-129)...

For those of you who happened to Google your title and ended up here, please know that one star is not a bad thing in Robin's world -- just the fact the I picked up your book and started it means that somewhere it's getting good buzz (or that your blurb was really cool). 'R' means it's a re-read. Different colored font means it's an ARC for 2010 (and I'll try to remember to put the month it's released, as well). I'm linking to Tattered Cover's pages for the ARCs.

* I didn't make it beyond the first 20 pages.** I made it to the end, but I either skimmed or skipped large sections.*** I might have skipped/skimmed, but I liked it and might read it again.**** I read at least 95% of the book and it was good -- definitely will be reread.***** I read every word, and I loved it! A favorite.

Clockwork Angel, by Cassandra Clare **** This is definitely a strong story with intriguing characters. I like Tessa, and I really like both Jem and Will. Victorian Era books really aren't my forte, however, so about 2/3 of the way through, I kind of lost steam. I skimmed to the end, and I'll definitely pick up the next book (of course). (YA urban fantasy/steampunk, released 8/10, publisher: McElderry)

Halo, by Alexandra Adornetto ***+ This started out pretty strong for me, but then, near the end, it hit the dreaded 'love triangle' -- which made me want to scream at the MC (Bethany). I'm sorry, but I've gotten to the point (after reading a number of books set up like this) where I lose all respect for girls who fight tooth and nail (and defy even heaven, in this case) to be with boy, and then they toss it aside to do something stupid with another boy (when anyone with a brain would know better). I won't even finish it now (sigh). However, up to that point, it was definitely an intriguing story with a sweet romance -- and chances are good that I'll at least take a look at the next book. Plus, I know this type of device doesn't bother everyone. (YA urban fantasy -- angels/demons, published 8/10, publisher: Feiwel & Friends)

The Replacement, by Brenna Yovanoff ****+ This is a very enjoyable read, appropriately creepy and mysterious. I loved the MC (Mackie) -- he's very original and sympathetic. My only (minor) complaint is the nebulous setting. In some ways, it really enhances the mood of the book, but for me, when it came to a resolution, I just didn't feel appropriately grounded to understand the nuances of how the two worlds had come together. But overall, I really liked it. (YA urban fantasy, released 9/10, publisher: Razorbill)